And O'Neill fears the 19-year-old, who can play in either defence or midfield, may make the switch to England.

"He is still deliberating. He is a young man," O'Neill said.

"England have spoken to him. He is taking time to make his mind up. He has done brilliantly for us. I'm giving him a little bit of time.

"I wouldn't be exaggerating to say Declan has loved it with us. After the Turkey game [Rice's senior Ireland debut] his father was there and it was a joyous moment for them.

"We have done everything we can. He has been welcomed by the squad, the fans. He is taking time and I am respecting that."

O'Neill: I wouldn't be exaggerating to say Declan has loved it with us. After the Turkey game his father was there and it was a joyous moment for them. We have done everything we can. He has been welcomed by the squad, the fans. He is taking time and I am respecting that. #COYBIG